The stomach produces too much acid due to a variety of factors that affect the hormone gastrin, which regulates acid levels. Increased gastrin levels, known as hypergastrinemia, result in higher than normal gastric acid production.
Causes of Excess Stomach Acid
Here's a breakdown of common reasons for excessive stomach acid production, according to the provided reference:
| Cause | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Long-term PPI Use | Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) can lead to a rebound effect, causing the stomach to produce more acid when you stop taking them. |
| Long-term Antacid Use | Like PPIs, long-term antacid use can also cause the stomach to compensate by producing more acid. |
| H. pylori Infection | Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria can infect the stomach lining and increase acid production. |
| Gastritis | Inflammation of the stomach lining can disrupt normal digestive processes and contribute to acid overproduction. |
| Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome | A rare condition where tumors (usually in the pancreas or small intestine) release excessive amounts of gastrin, resulting in very high acid levels. |
These factors affect gastrin levels, ultimately leading to excessive acid production:
- Hormonal Imbalances: As outlined in the table above, conditions affecting gastrin regulation, like Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, directly cause excessive acid.
- Medication Rebound: Both PPIs and antacids, intended to reduce acid, may cause the stomach to produce more acid when used long-term and then discontinued.
- Infections & Inflammation: H. pylori infection and gastritis are both causes of stomach inflammation and can result in increased acid production.
Managing Excess Stomach Acid
While identifying the underlying cause is critical, some strategies can help manage excessive stomach acid:
- Consult a Doctor: If you suspect excessive acid production, consulting a healthcare provider is vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Address H. pylori infection: If you have H. pylori, treating it with antibiotics is necessary to resolve the infection and normalize acid production.
- Dietary Changes: Certain foods and drinks can trigger acid reflux. Identifying and avoiding these can help manage symptoms.
- Medication Management: If PPIs or antacids are part of the problem, your doctor will help develop a plan to safely stop them and address the underlying causes.
In summary, excessive stomach acid production is often linked to conditions impacting gastrin regulation, like long-term medication use, H. pylori infection, gastritis, and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
